Meaning of "Can't Shake You" by Gloriana

The lyrics of "Can't Shake You" express the difficulty of letting go and moving on from a past love. The narrator is haunted by memories and reminders of their former partner, as indicated by their actions such as changing the station when a particular song plays or avoiding driving past their ex's house. The presence of their ex is also symbolized by the black leather jacket still hanging in the narrator's closet, an item that could be associated with their former lover. The desire to give it away reflects the narrator's longing to remove any reminders of the relationship. Despite the physical absence of their ex, they continue to occupy the narrator's thoughts and emotions. The repetitive line "Oh even though you're gone, somehow you stay" emphasizes how deeply their presence is ingrained in the narrator's life.

The second verse reveals the narrator's attempt to cope with their unresolved feelings. They try to shake off the pain of the breakup by drinking and avoiding emotional connections with others. Erasing their ex's contact information, blocking their calls, and seeking other lovers are all coping mechanisms designed to create distance. The metaphor of building walls around themselves serves as a defense mechanism, an attempt to protect themselves from further heartache. However, despite their efforts, they admit that they can't shake the memories and emotions tied to their ex. The inability to let go is further highlighted in the chorus, as the repetition of "I can't shake you" reinforces their struggles and frustration. The emotional weight of the lyrics is accentuated with the line "And I don't know why," indicating the narrator's confusion and inability to understand why they can't move on.

Overall, "Can't Shake You" explores the complexities of letting go after a breakup. It delves into the lingering memories, emotions, and overwhelming presence of a past love, making it difficult for the narrator to move forward. The lyrics capture the frustration, confusion, and longing that often accompany the process of trying to shake off the remnants of a failed relationship.